Impact of Moringa oleifera leaf extract on renal histopathology, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and calcium oxalate crystals in rats (Rattus norvegicus) exposed to ethylene glycol.

BACKGROUND: Nephrolithiasis is a kidney disorder caused by the formation of crystals through physiological and chemical processes in the body, with calcium oxalate being a major contributor. Moringa oleifera leaves are known for their antioxidant, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory properties and contain alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, polysaccharides, saponins, phenolics, and tannins. AIM: This study aimed to investigate the potential of M. oleifera leaf extract (MLE) as a calcium oxalate crystal inhibitor, its effect on reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and histopathological changes in kidneys. METHODS: Fifty male Rattus norvegicus aged 12 weeks and weighing 202.43 ± 30.39 g were divided into five groups of 10. The groups included: normal control (C) group without treatment, the untreated ethylene glycol (EG)-induced group (T0), and the EG-induced groups treated with MLE at doses of 200 mg/kgbw (T1), 316 mg/kgbw (T2), and 500 mg/kgbw (T3) at 4-hour intervals after EG induction. EG and MLE were administered orally using a gastric tube for 21 days. The parameters observed included SOD and MDA activity, calcium oxalate crystals, and kidney histopathology. RESULTS: MLE inhibited calcium oxalate crystal formation, reduced MDA levels, increased SOD activity, and prevented tubular epithelial cell degeneration, epithelial necrosis, and interstitial inflammation in the kidneys. CONCLUSION: MLE demonstrated calcium oxalate crystal dissolution activity, antioxidant effects by reducing MDA content, enhanced SOD activity, and improved kidney conditions, thereby contributing to good health and well-being.